By Mohd Khairul Ramli
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has recently released a report outlining the significant impact artificial intelligence (AI) will have on the global workforce. The report suggests that as much as 40% of jobs worldwide could be affected by AI within the next two years, with advanced economies facing an even greater risk of disruption at 60%.
This news presents a critical challenge for Malaysia, a nation striving towards economic prosperity. While AI offers undeniable benefits like increased efficiency and productivity, its potential to displace a significant portion of the workforce cannot be ignored. The question remains: how can Malaysia navigate this technological tsunami and minimize the negative impact on its citizens?
The IMF report highlights the importance of “high complementarity” jobs – roles where AI assists human workers rather than replacing them entirely. These positions often involve a high degree of responsibility, require human interaction, and leverage unique human skills like creativity and critical thinking. Surgeons, lawyers, judges, and other professionals who excel in these areas are less likely to be directly displaced by AI.